In the Psalms we find a reflection of life in a fallen world—years stippled with uncontainable joy and unspeakable sorrow, seasons of holistic prosperity and times of total poverty. In this collection of inspired poetry we hear the ancient but relatable cries of God’s people as they too sought to obey the Lord faithfully, avoid sin desperately, live life wisely, endure the world victoriously, and wait for deliverance hopefully. But as this book of the Bible nears its conclusion it announces with increasing clarity and rapidity what our response should always be: worship.

Whether we’re lamenting or celebrating, singing or groaning, gathered or scattered, God’s people are to “Praise the Lord!” And though there are many reasons to do that, Psalm 146 highlights his trustworthiness as fodder for his exaltation. Our God (unlike the people around us) is perfectly, lavishly, and eternally reliable, ever helping and protecting his own.